Arlene Phillips | The Guardianhttps://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/arlene-phillips
Latest news and features from theguardian.com, the world's leading liberal voiceen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2018Tue, 20 Mar 2018 04:50:13 GMT2018-03-20T04:50:13Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2018The Guardianhttps://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttps://www.theguardian.com
Shirley Ballas: why the new Strictly judge is already a master of the tabloid-catnip two-stephttps://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/shortcuts/2017/aug/29/shirley-ballas-why-the-new-strictly-judge-is-already-a-master-of-the-tabloid-catnip-two-step
<p>Len Goodman’s replacement, a Latin specialist, will need to contend with the show’s ‘curse’ – and comparisons to Arlene Phillips</p><p><strong>Name: </strong>Shirley Ballas.</p><p><strong>Age:</strong> 56.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/shortcuts/2017/aug/29/shirley-ballas-why-the-new-strictly-judge-is-already-a-master-of-the-tabloid-catnip-two-step">Continue reading...</a>Strictly Come DancingReality TVBBCTelevisionEntertainmentArlene PhillipsTue, 29 Aug 2017 12:00:09 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/shortcuts/2017/aug/29/shirley-ballas-why-the-new-strictly-judge-is-already-a-master-of-the-tabloid-catnip-two-stepPhotograph: FeatureflashSHM/REX/ShutterstockPhotograph: FeatureflashSHM/REX/ShutterstockGuardian Staff2017-08-29T12:00:09Z'Understand – it hurts': giants of dance reveal its tolls and triumphshttps://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/jul/15/being-a-dancer-secrets-dance-ballet-choreography-lyndsey-winship
<p>Late nights, early mornings, punishing schedules, stage fright, pulled hamstrings, failed auditions … Carlos Acosta, Tamara Rojo, Lauren Cuthbertson, Wayne McGregor, Matthew Bourne and more reveal the secrets of the dance studio</p><p><strong>Carlos Acosta</strong><br>In Cuba, I started break-dancing in the 80s. I was imitating Michael Jackson and so my father forced me into ballet. For three years I struggled; I had the ability to mimic movement very well, but I was unreliable. They cast me in shows and didn’t know if I was going to turn up or not. One time they had to stop a show for an hour and a half to look for me. I was out playing, they found me completely soaked in mud. At the age of 13 <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/jun/27/carlos-acosta-this-much-i-know">I saw the National Ballet of Cuba</a> for the first time. That’s when I fell in love with it. I saw the professionals doing all the lifts and carrying the girl with one hand and I decided, “I want to do that.”</p><p>I see an injury as an opportunity to explore a new way of moving</p><p>As an individual on stage you can feel vulnerable</p><p>My very first teacher taught me to be fearless</p><p>You have to grow a thick skin, rhino skin because of the rejection</p><p>One way of getting noticed is to have a kick-ass technique</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/jul/15/being-a-dancer-secrets-dance-ballet-choreography-lyndsey-winship">Continue reading...</a>DanceStageCultureBalletCarlos AcostaTamara RojoLauren CuthbertsonMatthew BourneHofesh ShechterWayne McGregorDarcey BussellArlene PhillipsStreet danceThu, 16 Jul 2015 06:00:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/jul/15/being-a-dancer-secrets-dance-ballet-choreography-lyndsey-winshipPhotograph: Tristram KentonPhotograph: Tristram KentonLyndsey Winship2015-07-16T06:00:02ZA star is reborn: Judy Garland to be played by daughter in new showhttps://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/mar/02/judy-garland-daughter-lorna-luft-new-show
<p>Lorna Luft will take the lead in a jukebox musical about her mother, Judy Garland, authorised by the star’s estate and with Arlene Phillips as creative director</p><p>Judy Garland’s daughter Lorna Luft is to step into her mother’s ruby slippers for a career-spanning new show, Judy: The Life and Music of a Hollywood Legend.</p><p>With Arlene Phillips as creative director, the show is billed as the only one authorised by the late star’s estate. It is set to thread together never-before-seen film clips and interviews with live performances of Garland songs including Over the Rainbow, Get Happy, and The Trolley Song.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/mar/02/judy-garland-daughter-lorna-luft-new-show">Continue reading...</a>StageFilmArlene PhillipsCultureMon, 02 Mar 2015 10:56:12 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/mar/02/judy-garland-daughter-lorna-luft-new-showPhotograph: Allstar/Cinetext/MGMPhotograph: Allstar/Cinetext/MGMBen Beaumont-Thomas2015-03-02T10:56:12ZHarriet Harman to newspapers: 'how many women over 50 do you employ?'https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/jul/25/harriet-harman-letter-newspaper-women
Deputy leader of Labour party writes letter to all national editors, saying a 'balanced team' is needed to ensure balanced reporting<p>Harriet Harman, the deputy leader of the Labour party, has written to the editors of Britain's national newspapers to ask them to publish the number of women aged over 50 they employ.</p><p>In a letter to the 16 national newspaper editors plus the London Evening Standard, Harman said that a "balanced team" including older women was needed to ensure balanced reporting. The letter comes after the government announced in February this year that it had decided not to bring into force the "dual characteristics" provision relating to discrimination in the <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/section/14" title="">Equality Act 2010</a>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/jul/25/harriet-harman-letter-newspaper-women">Continue reading...</a>Harriet HarmanNewspapersMaria MillerLabourPoliticsNewspapers & magazinesMediaSocietyArlene PhillipsAlesha DixonCultureMiriam O'ReillyWed, 24 Jul 2013 23:01:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/jul/25/harriet-harman-letter-newspaper-womenPhotograph: Handout/Getty ImagesHarriet Harman said equality was important for the quality of newspaper reporting and comment. Photograph: Handout/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Handout/Getty ImagesHarriet Harman said equality was important for the quality of newspaper reporting and comment. Photograph: Handout/Getty ImagesNicholas Watt2013-07-24T23:01:00ZWhere are they now? Five female faces who disappeared from our screenshttps://www.theguardian.com/media/2013/may/15/female-presenters-disappeared-from-television
David Dimbleby is still at the helm of Question Time and John Humphrys presents Today but their female peers have vanished<p>Just <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/media/2013/may/15/female-tv-presenters-ageism-sexism" title="">18% of on-air presenters in their over 50s are women</a>, new figures have revealed. So while David Dimbleby, 74, chairs Question Time, Jeremy Paxman, 63, fronts Newsnight and John Humphrys, 69, presents the Today programme, what has happened to their female counterparts of a similar age? Here's where five famous faces from a few years ago – aged from 61 to 73 – are now:</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2013/may/15/female-presenters-disappeared-from-television">Continue reading...</a>Older peopleBBCMediaThe news on TVTelevisionTV newsTelevision industryDavid DimblebyArlene PhillipsJeremy PaxmanWomenGenderWed, 15 May 2013 20:29:10 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/media/2013/may/15/female-presenters-disappeared-from-televisionPhotograph: Stefan Rousseau/PAKate Adie with fellow news-broadcaster Moira Stewart at Buckingham Palace in 2004 for an event saluting women in public life. Photograph: Stefan Rousseau/PAPhotograph: Stefan Rousseau/PAKate Adie with fellow news-broadcaster Moira Stewart at Buckingham Palace in 2004 for an event saluting women in public life. Photograph: Stefan Rousseau/PAZoha Tapia2013-05-15T20:29:10ZOn my radar: Arlene Phillipshttps://www.theguardian.com/culture/2013/feb/02/arlene-phillips-on-my-radar
The choreographer and former Strictly Come Dancing judge selects her cultural highlights, from ancient art to the latest circus tricks<p>Choreographer Arlene Phillips is best known for judging BBC1's <em>Strictly Come Dancing</em>, but found fame with 1970s dance troupe Hot Gossip and has worked on numerous films and stage shows, including recent productions of <em>Saturday Night Fever</em> and <em>The Wizard of Oz</em>. While growing up in Manchester she studied ballet, but when she moved to London she fell in love with modern American jazz dance and began teaching at Pineapple Dance Studios. After departing <em>Strictly</em> in 2008 Phillips judged <em>So You Think You Can Dance?</em> and created a series of children's books. She has also produced <em>Midnight Tango</em>, a dance show starring <em>Strictly Come Dancing</em> professional dancers, which is at the Phoenix theatre, London.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2013/feb/02/arlene-phillips-on-my-radar">Continue reading...</a>Arlene PhillipsStrictly Come DancingCultureSat, 02 Feb 2013 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/culture/2013/feb/02/arlene-phillips-on-my-radarPhotograph: Sarah Lee/GuardianArlene Phillips, choreographer. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianPhotograph: Sarah Lee/GuardianArlene Phillips, choreographer. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianGemma Kappala-Ramsamy2013-02-02T10:00:00ZTracey Emin recognised in New Year honours listhttps://www.theguardian.com/uk/2012/dec/29/tracey-emin-new-year-honours-list
The artist says she is 'looking forward to seeing the look on my mum's face' after being awarded a CBE<p>Once she recorded the names of the 102 people she had shared a bed with; now Tracey Emin is among those given the royal seal of approval, with the award of a CBE in the New Year honours list.</p><p>The 49-year-old artist has been best known for eye-opening works including Everyone I Have Ever Slept With 1963-1995, the tent embroidered with names that was destroyed in a warehouse fire in 2004, and My Bed, an installation of her unmade dirty bed including objects such as used condoms, discarded tampon applicators and blood-spotted underwear.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2012/dec/29/tracey-emin-new-year-honours-list">Continue reading...</a>New Year honours listTracey EminUK newsNew Year honours list 2013Art and designKate BushMusicArlene PhillipsTelevision & radioCultureSat, 29 Dec 2012 00:02:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/uk/2012/dec/29/tracey-emin-new-year-honours-listPhotograph: Ian West/PATracey Emin joins the singer Kate Bush and the choreographer Arlene Phillips in being awarded a CBE for services to the arts, music, dance and charity. Photograph: Ian West/PAPhotograph: Ian West/PATracey Emin joins the singer Kate Bush and the choreographer Arlene Phillips in being awarded a CBE for services to the arts, music, dance and charity. Photograph: Ian West/PAMark Sweney2012-12-29T00:02:00ZLauren Laverne's Spacepod 2012 podcast: episode 5https://www.theguardian.com/culture/audio/2012/sep/11/lauren-laverne-spacepod-podcast-5
This week's podcast was recorded live at a pop-up event at the Serpentine Gallery's new Summer Pavilion. We also explore the cultural legacy of the 2012 Festival<p>In this fifth episode of the London 2012 festival podcast, Lauren presents a special pop-up event at the Serpentine Gallery's new Summer Pavilion in London's Hyde Park and explores the cultural legacy of the 2012 Festival in conversation with Festival Director <strong>Ruth Mackenzie</strong> and Big Dance ambassador <strong>Arlene Phillips</strong>.</p><p>Also taking part is The Now Show's <strong>Jon Holmes</strong>, who hears how Shakespeare is being used to ambush unsuspecting members of the public; performance artist <strong>Bobby Baker</strong> dispenses tea and wisdom in an extract from her sell-out show Mad Gyms and Kitchens, and there's music by comic songwriter <strong>Mitch Benn</strong>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/culture/audio/2012/sep/11/lauren-laverne-spacepod-podcast-5">Continue reading...</a>ComedyArlene PhillipsCultural OlympiadCultureSerpentine pavilionTue, 11 Sep 2012 15:52:27 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/culture/audio/2012/sep/11/lauren-laverne-spacepod-podcast-5Photograph: Herzog & de Meuron and Ai Weiwei/PRSerpentine Gallery Pavilion, Herzog & de Meuron and Ai Weiwei, London, UK Photograph: Herzog & de Meuron and Ai WeiweiPhotograph: Herzog & de Meuron and Ai Weiwei/PRSerpentine Gallery Pavilion, Herzog & de Meuron and Ai Weiwei, London, UK Photograph: Herzog & de Meuron and Ai WeiweiLauren Laverne2012-09-11T15:52:27ZSeven days on stage: It could be curtains for dozens of theatreshttps://www.theguardian.com/stage/2012/jul/06/seven-days-on-stage-hippodrome-theatres-closing
Rebranded London Hippodrome relaunches, but many more historic buildings are at risk – plus Boris Johnson gets on his dancing shoes<p>Croydon's Warehouse, the Theatre Royal in Margate and the Darlington Arts Centre <a href="http://www.thestage.co.uk/news/newsstory.php/36691/uk-theatres-at-risk-revealed" title="">are among 49 theatres that are "at risk"</a>, according to a warning from conservation body the Theatres Trust. Its Theatre Buildings At Risk Register, which the organisation releases annually, ranks venues across the UK under threat from demolition or redevelopment. This year, there were 17 new entries, though the overall number of theatres at risk actually decreased from 56. Sadly, that's not such good news at is sounds: <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/stage/2012/jul/05/theatres-at-risk-register" title="">some of the venues removed from the list have been lost permanently</a>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2012/jul/06/seven-days-on-stage-hippodrome-theatres-closing">Continue reading...</a>TheatreStageCultureWest EndArlene PhillipsDanceMusicBoris JohnsonEric SykesTelevisionFri, 06 Jul 2012 13:00:31 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/stage/2012/jul/06/seven-days-on-stage-hippodrome-theatres-closingPhotograph: Mark Price / The Theatres TrustEndangered ... Alexandra Palace theatre in London, on the Theatres Trust at-risk register for 2012. Photograph: Mark Price / The Theatres TrustPhotograph: Mark Price / The Theatres TrustEndangered ... Alexandra Palace theatre in London, on the Theatres Trust at-risk register for 2012. Photograph: Mark Price / The Theatres TrustAlistair Smith2012-07-06T13:00:31ZArlene Phillips: My family valueshttps://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2012/jan/21/arlene-phillips-my-family-values
The choreographer talks about her family<p><strong>Dad was a barber</strong> and Mum looked after the three of us and helped in school doing lunches. I was the middle child with an older brother, Ian, and younger sister, Karen. I grew up in Manchester and still think of myself as a Mancunian. We had an old record player, and music filled the house. Both my parents loved ballet and old musical films. We would go to the Manchester Palace and watch from the back row of the gods.</p><p><strong>I always knew I wanted to dance</strong> and when I was eight, I started ballet lessons at a church hall. They all wore pink ballet shoes but I wore green, as they were cheap, and I remember everyone staring at me.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2012/jan/21/arlene-phillips-my-family-values">Continue reading...</a>Arlene PhillipsStrictly Come DancingTelevisionEntertainmentReality TVFamilyLife and styleSat, 21 Jan 2012 00:06:14 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2012/jan/21/arlene-phillips-my-family-valuesPhotograph: Sarah Lee/GuardianArlene Phillips: 'My sister had dance lessons too, but she stopped so I could have an extra class. I have never forgotten that.' Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianPhotograph: Sarah Lee/GuardianArlene Phillips: 'My sister had dance lessons too, but she stopped so I could have an extra class. I have never forgotten that.' Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianNikki Spencer2012-01-21T00:06:14ZWhat I see in the mirror: Arlene Phillipshttps://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2011/jun/11/arlene-phillips-what-see-in-the-mirror
'Dancing keeps me strong, but I am 67 and nothing can change that'<p>Mirrors are part of my life and an ever-changing source of delight, displeasure or even disaster, depending on which one I am looking in. I look in a magnifying mirror when I pluck my eyebrows in the morning, full-length mirrors every day in rehearsal, and I often nervously bring out a compact to check my make-up.</p><p>Generally, it is not that I like what&nbsp;I see but that I live with what I&nbsp;see, because there is not a lot I&nbsp;can&nbsp;change. When I am in rehearsal, my tracksuits are carefully&nbsp;placed to disguise parts of&nbsp;my body. I'll think, "My bum looks big today, so a&nbsp;cardigan will hide it."</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2011/jun/11/arlene-phillips-what-see-in-the-mirror">Continue reading...</a>Arlene PhillipsBeautyLife and styleFri, 10 Jun 2011 23:02:28 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2011/jun/11/arlene-phillips-what-see-in-the-mirrorPhotograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian/Guardian'I like to look as good as I can.' Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianPhotograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian/Guardian'I like to look as good as I can.' Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianArlene Phillips2011-06-10T23:02:28ZArlene Phillips: 'The Strictly row doesn't really die down'https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2011/mar/20/interview-arlene-phillips-wizard-oz
The choreographer talks about The Wizard of Oz, being bossy – and the row that just won't go away…<p><strong>Phillips, 67, shot to fame in the 70s, creating provocative routines for the dance troupe Hot Gossip. She was a judge on <em>Strictly Come Dancing </em>for six series until she was replaced by Alesha Dixon in 2009. Her choreography features in Andrew Lloyd Webber's </strong><a href="http://www.wizardofozthemusical.com/" title=""><strong><em>The Wizard of Oz</em></strong></a><strong> at the London Palladium.</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2011/mar/20/interview-arlene-phillips-wizard-oz">Continue reading...</a>Arlene PhillipsAndrew Lloyd WebberTheatreStageCultureSun, 20 Mar 2011 00:05:15 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2011/mar/20/interview-arlene-phillips-wizard-ozPhotograph: Sarah Lee/GuardianArlene Phillips: 'I'm bossy but fair.' Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianPhotograph: Sarah Lee/GuardianArlene Phillips: 'I'm bossy but fair.' Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianInterview by Gemma Kappala-Ramsamy2011-03-20T00:05:15ZAndrew Lloyd Webber's Wizard of Ozhttps://www.theguardian.com/stage/gallery/2011/mar/02/wizard-oz-lloyd-webber-in-pictures
Off to see the Wizard? Andrew Lloyd Webber's much-anticipated (or much-dreaded, according to taste) musical adaptation has just opened at the London Palladium, to a chorus of Oz-themed puns. Here's how the evening unfolded <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/stage/gallery/2011/mar/02/wizard-oz-lloyd-webber-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>MusicalsAndrew Lloyd WebberTheatreStageWest EndArlene PhillipsWed, 02 Mar 2011 12:51:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/stage/gallery/2011/mar/02/wizard-oz-lloyd-webber-in-picturesPhotograph: Jonathan Hordle / Rex FeaturesDanielle Hope as Dorothy in the West End version of the Wizard of Oz Photograph: Jonathan Hordle / Rex FeaturesPhotograph: Jonathan Hordle / Rex FeaturesDanielle Hope as Dorothy in the West End version of the Wizard of Oz Photograph: Jonathan Hordle / Rex FeaturesGuardian Staff2011-03-02T12:51:00ZThe politics of ageism | Peter Prestonhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2011/feb/13/politics-ageism-tv-leaders-youth
It's mainly reported as a TV issue, but even more so it's our political leaders who reveal their youth and inexperience<p>Don't confuse Hosni Mubarak, 82, with David Dimbleby, 72. Everyone's glad Hosni's gone, but the BBC seems pretty anxious to keep David in contractual charge of Question Time and – who knows? – of the next election too. Unhappy about not presiding over the royal wedding? Anxious about too many trips to Glasgow? Never mind, Mr D. You're authoritative, experienced, still near the top of your game… But (irate noises off) you're also a man!</p><p>So, in a trice, we're back to the parallel ruckus where Angela Rippon, 66, <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/arlene-phillips?INTCMP=SRCH" title="">Arlene Phillips</a>, 67, and <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/media/miriam-o-reilly?INTCMP=SRCH" title="">Miriam O'Reilly</a>, 53, bulk large – the row about how women TV presenters get retired early while men go on and on. Why on earth should David Dimbleby be indefinitely preserved when Moira Stuart, 61, is toast? Why should John Humphrys, 67, keep his place in the sun when Anna Ford, 67, sits out in the cold? That sad-seeming figure in wellies on a lonely hillside is Selina Scott, 59. Cue sundry assorted -isms and -ersms. But also prepare to notice an even more dotty dislocation.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2011/feb/13/politics-ageism-tv-leaders-youth">Continue reading...</a>MediaMiriam O'ReillyArlene PhillipsDavid DimblebyLiberal-Conservative coalitionPoliticsDavid CameronGeorge OsborneDanny AlexanderTelevision industryJeremy PaxmanInequalityUK newsSun, 13 Feb 2011 19:30:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2011/feb/13/politics-ageism-tv-leaders-youthPeter Preston2011-02-13T19:30:00ZFormer Countryfile presenter fronts ITV investigation into ageism on TVhttps://www.theguardian.com/media/2011/feb/10/countryfile-miriam-oreilly-tonight-itv
Miriam O'Reilly presents edition of Tonight featuring interviews with Arlene Phillips, Michael Buerk and Angela Rippon<p>Miriam O'Reilly, the <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/media/2011/jan/11/countryfile-miriam-oreilly-tribunal" title="presenter sacked from the BBC because of her age">former Countryfile presenter who won her age discrimination case against the BBC last month</a>, will tonight present an ITV investigation into whether television is ageist.</p><p>Featuring interviews with axed Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips and newsreaders Michael Buerk and Angela Rippon, the programme also reveals the results of a poll that shows viewers want to see more older presenters on TV.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2011/feb/10/countryfile-miriam-oreilly-tonight-itv">Continue reading...</a>Miriam O'ReillyITV plcTelevision industryArlene PhillipsTV newsInequalityMediaUK newsThu, 10 Feb 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/media/2011/feb/10/countryfile-miriam-oreilly-tonight-itvPhotograph: Rex FeaturesFormer Countryfile presenter Miriam O'Reilly, who won a sex and age discrimination case against the BBC last month. Photograph: Rex FeaturesPhotograph: Rex FeaturesFormer Countryfile presenter Miriam O'Reilly, who won a sex and age discrimination case against the BBC last month. Photograph: Rex FeaturesTara Conlan2011-02-10T00:01:00ZQ&A: Arlene Phillipshttps://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2010/oct/16/arlene-phillips-interview
'I'd go back to the time of Hollywood, under the tutelage of Busby Berkeley'<p><a href="http://www.arlenephillips.com" title="">Arlene Phillips</a>, 67, was born in Manchester. In the 70s, she created the dance group <a href="http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=hot+gossip&amp;aq=f" title="">Hot Gossip</a> and went on to become a world-renowned choreographer for theatre, film, pop concerts, music videos and&nbsp;adverts. Last year, she was controversially dropped from the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/strictlycomedancing/" title="">Strictly Come Dancing</a> judging panel. She has just published two books for children and choreographed the <a href="http://www.shaftesbury-theatre.co.uk/" title="">Flashdance</a> musical, which runs at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London, until February next year.</p><p><strong>When were you happiest?</strong><br>Each time I gave birth.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2010/oct/16/arlene-phillips-interview">Continue reading...</a>Arlene PhillipsLife and styleFri, 15 Oct 2010 23:02:09 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2010/oct/16/arlene-phillips-interviewPhotograph: Katie Collins/PAArlene Phillips: 'My worst trait? Tidying everything up before anyone has finished with it.' Photograph: Katie Collins/PAPhotograph: Katie Collins/PAArlene Phillips: 'My worst trait? Tidying everything up before anyone has finished with it.' Photograph: Katie Collins/PARosanna Greenstreet2010-10-15T23:02:09ZArlene Phillips: Why I'm still haunted by Strictlyhttps://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2010/oct/04/arlene-phillips-after-strictly-come-dancing
Arlene Phillips first tasted fame with her dance troupe Hot Gossip. Then came her stint as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing. Now she's got her groove back – writing dance books for children and choreographing West End shows<p>Early morning in a dance studio in north-west London and <a href="http://www.arlenephillips.com/Arlene_Phillips/PROFILE.html" title="Arlene Phillips">Arlene Phillips</a> moves across the hall, feet squeaking lightly on the matt black floor. In the mirrors that span the walls, her image springs back several-fold, showing a woman who, at 67, is the very embodiment of the word trim. It is there in the slender figure and the pretty face, of course, but in her manner, too; something slightly contained, something tightly spooled.</p><p>Phillips has been one of the UK's best-known choreographers for more than three decades, first as the orchestrator of dance troupe <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_Gossip" title="Hot Gossip">Hot Gossip</a>, then overseeing West End shows such as <a href="http://www.reallyuseful.com/shows/starlight-express/about-starlight-express-1" title="Starlight Express">Starlight Express</a> and <a href="http://www.greasethemusical.co.uk/whos_who/creative/arlene_phillips.php" title="Grease">Grease</a>, as well as music videos for stars including Duran Duran, Tina Turner and Robbie Williams. In 2004, she became a judge on the BBC's new primetime Saturday-night show, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strictly_Come_Dancing" title="Strictly Come Dancing">Strictly Come Dancing</a>, and was suddenly transformed into a sprightly national treasure. Then, four years later, when she was unceremoniously removed from the programme in favour of pop star Alesha Dixon, she found herself at the centre of a dispute that even prompted comment from then-government minister Harriet Harman. These days, the Strictly storm having died down, Phillips has found a variety of other enterprises: among them appearances on the television series <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00pj22l" title="So You Think You Can Dance?">So You Think You Can Dance?</a> and the panel show <a href="http://www.itv.com/lifestyle/loosewomen/" title="Loose Women">Loose Women</a>, as well as a <a href="http://www.marisota.co.uk/shop/page?pageId=4041&amp;promo=6200&amp;cm_mmc_o=7BBTkwCjC4zyblBfzCjC2zfzkBTAwCjCEz&amp;gclid=CPqx48_LtqMCFRf92Aod61iheA" title="fashion line">fashion line</a>, a makeup collection, and a range of jewellery for QVC.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2010/oct/04/arlene-phillips-after-strictly-come-dancing">Continue reading...</a>Arlene PhillipsTelevision & radioCultureDanceMusicalsStageTheatreMon, 04 Oct 2010 07:00:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2010/oct/04/arlene-phillips-after-strictly-come-dancingPhotograph: Linda Nylind for the GuardianArlene Phillips: 'Everything was a struggle, and dancing changed all of that.' Photograph: Linda Nylind for the GuardianPhotograph: Linda Nylind for the GuardianArlene Phillips: 'Everything was a struggle, and dancing changed all of that.' Photograph: Linda Nylind for the GuardianLaura Barton2010-10-04T07:00:02ZThe new Equality Act - do you know your rights? | Afua Hirschhttps://www.theguardian.com/law/afua-hirsch-law-blog/2010/sep/30/new-equality-act-under-the-spotlight
The new rules on equality and anti-discrimination come into force today and employers are already complaining<p>When Arlene Phillips, the 66-year old Strictly Come Dancing judge, was <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009/jul/09/arlene-phillips-strictly-come-dancing-bbc">removed from the show to make way for 30-year old Alesha Dixon</a>, there was a wave of public outrage. But Phillips could not have claimed age discrimination – one of the other male judges who remained on the show was 65. And she could not have claimed sex discrimination – she was replaced by a woman. The BBC, which is<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/feb/04/older-women-too-old-for-tv"> frequently accused of ditching women when they become "too old for TV"</a>, may have thought harder about removing her if the law had had more to say. </p><p>From today, it does. Under the new Equality Act which comes into force, the law recognises that you can be - this is innovative I know - both a woman, and old. It sounds obvious, but it really is progress. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/afua-hirsch-law-blog/2010/sep/30/new-equality-act-under-the-spotlight">Continue reading...</a>LawDiscrimination at workInequalityArlene PhillipsEquality Act 2010Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:37:51 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/law/afua-hirsch-law-blog/2010/sep/30/new-equality-act-under-the-spotlightPhotograph: Gareth Davies/Getty ImagesArlene Phillips ... removed from BBC show Strictly Come Dancing to make way for a younger woman. Photograph: Gareth Davies/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Gareth Davies/Getty ImagesArlene Phillips ... removed from BBC show Strictly Come Dancing to make way for a younger woman. Photograph: Gareth Davies/Getty ImagesAfua Hirsch2010-09-30T18:37:51ZSo You Think You Can Dance: how can I resist?https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2010/feb/04/dance-tv-shows-choreography
TV dance shows may be gaudy and dumbed-down, but they bring choreography out of the shadows – and I think I'm hooked<p>Who knew we'd be seeing choreography by <a href="http://www.henrioguikedance.co.uk/" title="">Henri Oguike</a>, <a href="http://www.rafaelbonachela.com/" title="">Rafael Bonachela</a> and <a href="http://www.rambert.org.uk/about_rambert/artistic_director" title="">Mark Baldwin</a> on prime-time Saturday TV, or hearing serious discussion of brisés volés? <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00pj22l" title="">So You Think You Can Dance</a> may have some of the naffest production values on the box, but it's actually done the job of getting dance – other than ballroom – into the mainstream. And so far, I'm hooked.</p><p>Generally, I don't have the stamina for TV talent shows. I'm allergic to Bruce Forsythe. And even with this one I do find myself muttering abuse at the screen. One issue I have is with the way the competition pits dance styles against each other, usually to the disadvantage of contemporary choreography. Most of the numbers are stunt-heavy hip-hop routines, disco, Broadway, lindy hop and jazz. In order to compete, and to elicit the mandatory squeals from the audience, Baldwin et al have to soup up – and dumb down – their styles. Oguike's number looked frankly odd.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2010/feb/04/dance-tv-shows-choreography">Continue reading...</a>DanceArlene PhillipsStageCultureReality TVThe news on TVThu, 04 Feb 2010 12:36:17 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/stage/2010/feb/04/dance-tv-shows-choreographyPhotograph: Zak Hussein/PAPersonality cult ... Robbie White and Charlie Bruce perform on the BBC's So You Think You Can Dance. Photograph: Zak Hussein/PAPhotograph: Zak Hussein/PAPersonality cult ... Robbie White and Charlie Bruce perform on the BBC's So You Think You Can Dance. Photograph: Zak Hussein/PAJudith Mackrell2010-02-04T12:36:17ZArlene v Alesha ageism argument won't wash with Diane Sawyerhttps://www.theguardian.com/media/2010/jan/31/arlene-alesha-diane-sawyer-ageism-row
The BBC, embroiled in an ageism row over Arlene Phillips and female newscasters, should look to the US for true grey power<p>Was it the curse of <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/media/2009/jul/09/arlene-phillips-strictly-come-dancing-bbc" title="Arlene Phillips ageism row">Arlene</a> (or Alesha)? Did the BBC's top dogs suddenly decide for themselves to recall assorted mature <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/media/2010/jan/03/bbc-female-newsreaders-harriet-harman" title="BBC accused of ageism">female news presenters </a>from their kitchen sinks and regional TV newsrooms – or were the hounds of political correctness baying too loud? At which point, cross the Atlantic and watch ABC's World News. It used to be introduced by a man, Charlie Gibson. He's retired. It is now introduced by a woman, <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/media/organgrinder/2009/sep/03/diane-sawyer-abc-news-anchor" title="Diane Sawyer: New anchor">Diane Sawyer</a>. Diane is 64. Her arrival has pushed up ratings by nearly 9%, so that her show is breathing down the neck of Brian Williams, the current network leader. She's just good. Indeed, after 11 years of breakfast television experience, she's great. And age has nothing – nothing at all – to do with it.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2010/jan/31/arlene-alesha-diane-sawyer-ageism-row">Continue reading...</a>Newspapers & magazinesBBCArlene PhillipsMediaSun, 31 Jan 2010 00:10:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/media/2010/jan/31/arlene-alesha-diane-sawyer-ageism-rowPhotograph: Andrew H. Walker/Getty ImagesDiane Sawyer is 64 – ageism hasn't stopped her piling on the ratings. Photograph: Andrew H. Walker/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Andrew H. Walker/Getty ImagesDiane Sawyer is 64 – ageism hasn't stopped her piling on the ratings. Photograph: Andrew H. Walker/Getty ImagesPeter Preston2010-01-31T00:10:02Z